Koffee ChitChat Paula

Witness the transformation of leadership into legacy as my mother,  Paula Barfield Hughes, recounts her evolution from humble beginnings to a distinguished military officer and entrepreneur. Her story, laden with the virtues of faith and fortitude, will rivet you with tales of navigating the ranks of the Army Reserves to ultimately co-founding our very own Koffee Chit Chat Podcast. In our heart-to-heart, Mom delves into her treasured role at the Defense Finance and Accounting Services, sharing the fulfillment that comes from ensuring soldiers receive their due rewards. Her journey is a testament to the foundational values of leadership that transcend into business and personal life, offering listeners a blueprint for success grounded in service and commitment.

Shedding light on my own entrepreneurial adventures, the episode segues into the birth of Brittaney’s  Beauty Supply and my endeavors to uplift women through Mary Kay Cosmetics and Paparazzi Accessories. The passion and purpose behind every business leap I've taken illuminate the path from dream to reality, underscoring the grit and grace required to carve a niche in the competitive world of beauty and fashion. As we unwrap the essence of our Koffee Chit Chat podcast, I invite you to join a community where positivity radiates and inspiration is a shared currency. With stories that stir the soul and a quote from Philippians 6:7  to remind us of the serenity found in gratitude, this episode is an intimate journey through the landscapes of ambition and achievement.
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Ever wondered about the journey of a military mom who breaks through the tech world's glass ceiling? Maria Henderson joins us to share her incredible leap from history enthusiast and healthcare professional to becoming a leader in technology and cybersecurity at Northrop Grumman Corporation. She shatters the stereotype that tech is a man's world, celebrating the innovative spirit women infuse into this dynamic industry. Balancing work, study, and family life, Maria's story is a testament to determination and the power of embracing unexpected career turns.

Today's conversation navigates the challenging waters of diversity in STEM, a place where I've personally felt the currents of being a mixed-race individual. I delve into the value of mentorship, the art of advocating for oneself, and the importance of honing skills like active listening and collaboration. Reflecting on my own tough stint in manufacturing, I unravel the learning curve and how it paved the way to tech triumphs. The chapter on STEM highlights how embracing diversity strengthens our industry and what it takes to prosper amid the challenges.

Wrapping up, we turn our focus to igniting a passion for tech in the younger generation, especially young women and children of color. Education isn't just about STEM; it's about nurturing well-rounded skills, including the often-overlooked art of writing. I give you a backstage pass to our company's efforts in cultivating an inclusive culture, from high school programs to professional development for college students. We close on the powerful note that your unique voice isn't just welcome—it's a superpower, echoing the inspirational words of leaders like Erin Teague. Join us as we celebrate individuality and the collective strength it brings to the tech table.
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Meet Alicia Williams, a trailblazer whose story begins with a shy child who found her voice, and how that voice has since echoed across the world of network marketing, touching the lives of over 117,000 consultants. As a former educator turned elite business leader, Alicia's journey is drenched in inspiration and the power of faith. She wields Philippians 4:13 as a source of resilience, creating a narrative not just about products and profits, but about the profound impact of relationships, service, and self-belief. Her triumph as the first African American elite leader in her organization is a beacon for many, proving that representation matters, and Alicia is here to share the wisdom she's gathered from her remarkable ascent.

Alicia Williams doesn't just achieve goals; she redefines them. She offers an insightful look into the 'scale of life,' sharing how she manages her ever-expanding responsibilities while still placing family and personal well-being at the forefront. Her story reimagines the work-life balance with a refreshing candor, showing that through delegation, outsourcing, and the courage to occasionally say no, it's possible to nurture a thriving business without sacrificing joy. Alicia's approach encourages us to seek out our unique superpowers—our authenticity—and to embrace the transformation from educator to entrepreneur, or whatever your personal evolution may be.

Celebration and support among women—this is the uplifting message that resonates throughout our conversation with Alicia, as we recognize the strength that comes from women cheering for one another. She recounts the empowerment she's experienced, especially from her supporter Paula, and extends the invitation for listeners to apply these insights to their own professional and personal growth. Alicia's narrative is an open book of strategies, experiences, and heartfelt advice for anyone ready to step into their greatness and empower others along the way. Join us, and let Alicia Williams inspire you to shape your dreams into reality with determination, faith, and a circle of support that raises you higher.
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Brace  yourselves for an episode that charts the remarkable ascent of Brigadier General retired Twanda  Tia Young, whose candid reflection on her military career transcends the boundaries of what we perceive as possible. Tia’s journey shatters the limitations often imposed on dreams, beginning with an ambition that once barely reached the rank of captain, and soaring to the heights of general officer—a role that placed her among the elite 61 women to have ever worn the stars. Her narrative, now immortalized within the Library of Congress, is more than a personal triumph; it’s a beacon that guides future female officers, illuminating the path to leadership with grace, determination, and an unshakeable commitment to nurturing the seeds of potential in those who follow.

In the heart of our conversation, Tia Young unravels the intricate tapestry of leadership, with communication threads that bind and build the strongest teams. We confront the specters of self-doubt and the power of affirming one’s worth, peeling back the layers of what it means to be a minority voice echoing with substance in halls of decision. Tia’s wisdom extends a lifeline to those still navigating their ascent, offering strategies steeped in motivation and the kind of inspirational leadership that fosters trust and breaks through ceilings once thought impenetrable. This episode isn’t just storytelling; it’s a masterclass in leadership, a mentorship session that arms you with the tools to climb your own ladder of success, no matter the obstacles that loom.


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Embrace the dawn of a new year with the wisdom of Sharon Jones,  licensed marriage and family therapist whose work with Alabaster Moments Consultant LLC is lighting the way for a revolution in mental health support. As our cherished guest, Sharon's expertise and passion for empowering individuals, especially within faith-based communities, is palpable. She brings to the table a unique blend of innovative workshops, coaching, and training that transcends traditional therapy. With her book "Alabaster Moments" as a backdrop, she reminds us that self-compassion isn't just a feel-good phrase but a potent tool for personal transformation, and she uncovers the power of a personal wellness plan—even for the therapist.

Our conversation travels from the charming streets of Coushatta , Louisiana, to the rich cultural landscape of Beoko Island in Equatorial Guinea, where Sharon's engagement extends to preserving an indigenous heritage and diving into the Bubi language. Listeners are treated to a special discount offer for her literary work, a gentle nudge to recognize the pivotal alabaster moments in their own lives. We close our enlightening chat with a quote from the one and only Oprah Winfrey, echoing Sharon's sage advice to live with intention, savoring each joy, no matter the size, with gracious self-kindness.
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Ever wonder how an eight-year-old boy, initially unenthusiastic about football, becomes a two-time Super Bowl champ? Here's the episode you've been waiting for! We are thrilled to host Cameron Fleming, a phenomenal American football offensive player for the Denver Broncos, and his father, Kem Fleming for an inspiring tête-à-tête. We explore Cam's journey, from being a little boy pushed into football by his father, to his evolution as an NFL star, shedding light on his struggles, triumphs, and the unwavering family support that played a significant role in his success.

But that’s not all, this episode is about more than just football. It's about the lessons life taught a military kid who moved places, made new friends, and learned to adapt – a journey made smoother by athletics. We go  deeper into Cam's life off the field, his love for video gaming and traveling, and his experiences under iconic figures like Bill Balcheck and Tom Brady. And for the parents out there, Cam's father shares some precious insights on nurturing your kids' interest in extra-curricular activities. So, brace yourself for some heartwarming anecdotes, life lessons, and, of course, a lot of football!
#nfl
#football
#militarykid
#dreambig
#broncos


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